CLR User Survey Results

Heritage Landscapes developed user surveys, with input from the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Legacy Committee, to understand the current use and the public perception of the needs of each park and the boulevard. The results were important to learning about the parks and boulevard from the point of view of the people who enjoy them. Three surveys were created: Foster Park and West Rudisill Boulevard; Weisser Park, McMillen Park and East Rudisill Boulevard; and Shoaff Park. Surveys were made available between December 2006 and February 2007 at public meetings, at Parks and Recreation offices, at specific facilities in the parks, online at the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation website, and at a variety of other locations in Fort Wayne. The surveys were a tool to generate public input and assessment of the park landscape and facilities. Survey questions elicited citizen input on current types of park use, condition of the park landscape and facilities, perception of safety, desired improvements, and user demographics.

Surveys were collected at the end of February and the results tabulated in order to gain a more thorough understanding of park and boulevard use. The Foster Park and West Rudisill Boulevard survey was filled out by 98 people. Fifty-nine park users responded to the Shoaff Park survey, and 22 people returned the Weisser Park, McMillen Park and East Rudisill Boulevard survey. Generally the parks are used throughout the year, with slightly higher use in the summer months. Rudisill Boulevard is also used year-round, although summer has slightly lower use than other seasons. Most people drive to Weisser, McMillen and Shoaff Parks, although the majority of visitors walk to Foster Park. While the surveys highlighted areas of excellence such as the oak-hickory grove at Weisser Park and the gardens at Foster Park, the results indicated areas of concern such as vehicular speeds on Rudisill Boulevard and the lack of pedestrian and bike trails at Shoaff Park.